Foundations, Progressions, Mastery
These three levels are for the more advanced students, ages 11 and up, who have had many years of training. Students move from Foundations (beginning) to Mastery (advanced) at their own pace, depending on the number of hours they participate both in and out of the studio. Practice makes permanence, and we strive to guide each student at their personal pace to the level they desire to reach!
Foundations
Ages 11+
Foundations is the first level of our 11+ training program. Dancers entering this level have progressed beyond the Junior program and are ready for more focused technique and increased responsibility in class.
Students continue building strength, alignment, coordination and ballet technique while preparing for more advanced training. Dancers who are ready may also begin pointe preparation or pointe work at this level.
Placement in Foundations is determined by the studio director.
Progressions
Ages 12+
Progressions is designed for dancers who have developed a strong technical foundation and are ready for greater complexity, consistency and challenge in their training.
Students continue refining ballet technique, strength, control and artistry while working toward more advanced skills. Dancers on pointe are encouraged to maintain consistent ballet and pointe training to support safe, continued progress.
Placement in Progressions is determined by the studio director.
Mastery
Ages 13+
Mastery is our most advanced level of training for dancers who are ready to fine-tune technique, artistry and performance quality.
These dancers work with greater independence and attention to detail while continuing to build the strength, control and versatility needed for advanced ballet and pointe work.
Placement in Mastery is determined by the studio director.
Additional Training Options
Dancers ages 11 and up can build a schedule that reflects both their goals and their interests.
In addition to ballet, students may choose from:
Tap
Jazz
Modern
Hip Hop
Pointe
Some classes are offered by level, while others may include dancers from more than one level depending on age, experience and readiness. Our instructors help guide each dancer toward the classes that best complement their training.
Beyond the Barre
Dancers may also expand their training with specialty classes that support strength, flexibility, body awareness, alignment and overall movement quality.
Offerings may include:
AcroDance
Aerial Silks
Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT)
Yoga
Musical Theatre
These classes are offered based on age, level, experience and readiness, and may vary throughout the season.
Performance Opportunities
Many of our 11+ dancers also perform with Springfield Dance Theatre through our storybook ballets, Pre-Company and Company programs.
These opportunities allow dancers to apply their technique on stage, develop artistry and performance confidence, and take on increasingly challenging roles as they grow.
For dancers interested in additional training and performance experiences, Springfield Dance Theatre can also provide a pathway toward opportunities with Copper Coin Ballet Company.